Factors Affecting Food Choice

Study Notes

Factors Affecting Food Choice

Likes and Dislikes: People tend to eat what they like and avoid what they dislike.
Economic Factors: Those with more money may shop at more expensive stores (e.g., M&S), while those with limited budgets may buy own-brand products at budget-friendly stores (e.g., Aldi).
Marketing: Stores strategically place special offers near entrances to attract customers. Promotional pricing (e.g., 80p for 2 baked beans) can influence decisions even if unnecessary.
Occupation: Farmers may prefer foods they grow, while delivery drivers may favor readily available foods from service stations or fast food restaurants.
Nutrition: Some individuals prioritize healthy diets with low-fat foods and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Age: Children often prefer sweets and chocolate, while adults might favor healthier options (e.g., dark chocolate, protein bars).
Day of the Week: Families may opt for takeaway meals during the week due to lack of time, but choose to cook more elaborate meals on weekends (e.g., Roast Sundays, Fish Fridays).
Ethics: Some people choose vegetarianism because they do not deem it ethical to eat meat.
Religion: Specific religious dietary rules exist across different faiths.
- Islam: Halal meat comes from animals slaughtered according to Islamic law (e.g., lamb, beef, goat, chicken). Haram foods include pork products and alcohol. Ramadan involves fasting during daylight hours.
- Judaism: Kosher food follows specific dietary laws: animals must have cloven hooves and chew cud, fish must have scales and fins, animals must be healthy during slaughter.
- Hinduism: Meat and dairy consumption are separate, often with a 3-6 hour waiting period required. Beef is typically avoided.

Teenage Healthy Eating Requirements

More: Fruits, vegetables, pulses, whole grains (fiber) are beneficial. Iron (prevents anaemia), calcium (strong bones), and omega-3 (brain health) are also valuable.
Less: Processed and red meats (cancer risk), added sugars (obesity/dental issues), salt (high blood pressure), and saturated fat (obesity) should be moderated.

Obesity

BMI (Body Mass Index) is used to estimate weight status.
Obesity is linked to several health risks, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed in childhood and requires insulin management.
Type 2 diabetes is often associated with obesity and can be controlled with diet and exercise.

Allergies and Intolerances

Allergies cause reactions to specific substances (allergens), potentially leading to histamine release, and symptoms (e.g., runny nose, rashes). Peanuts and eggs are examples.
Food intolerances typically involve digestive issues and varying symptoms. Common culprits include gluten and lactose.